Swift Energy's official opening of a $50 million oil and gas production station in South Taranaki on June 27 was warmly welcomed by the local community -- including Maoris -- thanks to efforts by the company and the community to keep the lines of communication open throughout the process. The station will process oil and gas from the Rimu and Kauri fields located offshore.
The Maori are an indigenous people of New Zealand, and make up 10 to 15 percent of New Zealand's population. Despite New Zealand's proximity to Australia, Maoris are more closely related -- physically and culturally -- with Polynesians, including Hawaiians, than to Australian Aborigines. Since colonization by Great Britain, the interests of the Maori have often been at odds with the Crown and with investors, the latest example of which is the protests against construction of a prison in Ngawha.
Maori relations with Swift Energy Ltd have, however, been much more congenial. The company, which is based in Houston, Texas, has in recent years taken a great interest in developing oil interests in New Zealand. At the official opening, Swift Energy President Terry Swift affirmed his company's commitment to act responsibly.
"You'll find we are committed to this mission," said Swift, "we want to assure you that the completion of this production station isn't the finish – but the start. We're committed to bringing the right sort of stewardship to you people." Mr. Swift attributed his ease in adopting such attitudes to his Cherokee Indian heritage.
The project was featured in a recent issue of Oil and Gas Investor, addressing the benefits of oil exploration in New Zealand. The magazine identified Swift Energy as the most significant independent oil company now working in New Zealand. Oil exploration in the region began in 1999, and commercial production began about 28 months after the initial discovery of oil, as compared to the average 4 to 11 years to initiate production.
For the time being, the local community seems satisfied with Swift's operations. One Maori elder, Dr. Huiranga Waikerepuru, stated, "We know Swift Energy is on our side."
South Taranaki Mayor Mary Bourke agreed.
"What has happened is that everyone has been kept very well informed," said Bourke. "This project shows what can be done when there is a high level of cooperation and plenty of information."
